Indonesia

How to get from Ubud to Nusa Penida

Compare all transport options: bus, ferry, train, flight. Prices, durations and tips from a local expert.

FASTEST
1h 23min
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From
10€
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Distance
40 km
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There are 1 way(s) to get from Ubud to Nusa Penida

Select an option below to see the route details and compare prices. Secure booking via our partner 12go.asia.

🚌 Departure from Ubud
📍Your fast boat to Nusa Penida will depart from Sanur Harbour (Pelabuhan Sanur), located on the southeast coast of Bali. This is the main gateway for boats heading to Nusa Penida and the Gili Islands. The harbour area has multiple jetties and numerous fast boat operator offices, so it can feel a bit chaotic.
🚇From Ubud, the most practical way to reach Sanur Harbour is by private taxi or ride-hailing service (Grab, Gojek). Expect the journey to take 1 to 1.5 hours and cost around IDR 200,000-300,000 (€13-20), depending on traffic and your negotiation skills. Some fast boat tickets include hotel pickup from Ubud.
Fast boats from Sanur to Nusa Penida run frequently throughout the day, typically starting from 7:00 AM until about 5:00 PM. Departures are generally every 30-60 minutes during peak hours, with fewer services in the late afternoon. Always confirm your specific boat's schedule.
💸 Transport from 10€ per person
Fastest: 1h 23min
🗓 Book now Secure payment · via 12go.asia

Practical tips

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Book Your Fast Boat in Advance

Don't wait until the last minute! Fast boats to Nusa Penida, especially from Sanur, can sell out, particularly during peak season. Booking online ensures you get your preferred departure time and avoids potential disappointment or inflated prices at the pier. Look for platforms like 12go.asia for reliable booking.

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Arrive Early at Sanur Harbour

Even with a pre-booked ticket, aim to arrive at Sanur Harbour at least 30-45 minutes before your scheduled departure. This gives you ample time for check-in, finding your specific boat counter, and navigating the busy port area without rushing. Traffic from Ubud can be unpredictable, so factor that in.

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Check Sea Conditions

Before heading to the port, quickly check the weather forecast and sea conditions. While fast boat operators are generally reliable, in very rough weather, crossings can be uncomfortable or even cancelled for safety. This rarely happens but it's good to be aware.

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Pack Light & Smart

For fast boat trips, it's easiest to have a backpack or a small suitcase. You'll likely need to wade through shallow water to board some boats, so wear sandals or flip-flops. Keep your valuables in a waterproof bag and accessible if you need them during the journey.

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Beware of Pier Touts and Overcharging

If you haven't booked online, be cautious of individuals at the port offering tickets at inflated prices. Stick to official counters or kiosks. For onward transport in Nusa Penida, arrange it at the port or with your accommodation rather than accepting the first offer.

🛣️ The journey experience

Heading from Ubud to Nusa Penida? This is a classic island-hopping route, and getting it right can save you a ton of time and stress. The key here is understanding that while the island-to-island journey itself is quick, the journey from your accommodation in Ubud to the port, and then from the Penida port to your final destination, can add significant time. We'll break down the real durations so you can plan your day effectively, avoiding the dreaded Bali traffic and ensuring a smooth connection.

Your primary option for this route is a fast boat, as there's no direct bus+ferry combination that makes sense for independent travellers seeking efficiency. Fast boats depart primarily from Sanur Harbour, which is about an hour's drive from Ubud depending on traffic. The boat crossing itself takes approximately 30-45 minutes. Expect a total door-to-door journey time of around 2 to 3 hours, factoring in the drive to Sanur, check-in, and the crossing.

Don't get caught out by changing schedules or bad weather. Booking your fast boat ticket in advance, especially during peak season, is highly recommended. This ensures you secure your spot on a reliable operator and avoids the hassle of last-minute scramble at the pier. Knowing your options and booking smart means you'll spend less time figuring out logistics and more time enjoying the stunning landscapes of Nusa Penida.

Frequently asked questions — Ubud → Nusa Penida

✨ Why visit Nusa Penida?

  • Marvel at the iconic Kelingking Beach viewpoint, resembling a T-Rex.
  • Swim with majestic Manta Rays at Manta Point.
  • Explore the natural pool of Broken Beach and the archway of Angel's Billabong.
  • Discover hidden caves and temples, such as Goa Giri Putri Cave Temple.
  • Enjoy breathtaking sunset views from Crystal Bay.
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Recommended stay
2 to 3 nights — allows full exploration of major attractions and island vibes.

☀️ When to visit Nusa Penida?

TROPICAL SEC ET HUMIDE

May to September — dry season with sunny days, perfect for beach activities and exploring.

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In Nusa Penida — Plan your stay
Accommodation, activities and tips selected for you
🏨 Accommodation
Hotels in Nusa Penida
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via trip.com

What to do in Nusa Penida?

Local experiences, must-see sights and activities selected for you

INCONTOURNABLE
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Kelingking Beach Viewpoint
Admire the iconic T-Rex shaped cliff and pristine turquoise waters. The descent to the beach is challenging and not for everyone, taking about 45 minutes each way. Best visited early morning to avoid crowds and the midday heat, and to capture the best light for photos.
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Angel's Billabong & Broken Beach
Explore the natural infinity pool of Angel's Billabong and the stunning archway of Broken Beach, two geological marvels side-by-side. Swimming in Angel's Billabong is only safe at low tide; always check tide times beforehand. Expect a short walk between the two sites.
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Snorkeling with Manta Rays
Embark on a boat trip to Manta Point for an unforgettable encounter with majestic manta rays. Several operators offer half-day tours, typically costing from 20€ per person. Be prepared for potentially choppy waters and ensure your boat has a guide experienced with spotting mantas safely.
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Diamond Beach & Atuh Beach
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Diamond Beach, with its pristine sands and dramatic cliffs, and the quieter cove of Atuh Beach. The climb down to Diamond Beach is steep but rewarded with incredible views. Consider renting a scooter for easy access to these eastern gems.
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Crystal Bay Sunset
Relax on Crystal Bay's tranquil sands and enjoy a spectacular sunset over the ocean. This beach is also a popular spot for snorkeling, with clear waters and abundant marine life. Arrive an hour before sunset to secure a good spot and perhaps grab a fresh coconut from a local vendor.
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Goa Giri Putri Temple Cave
Experience a unique spiritual journey inside this massive cave temple. A small entrance fee (around 1€) is required, and women must wear a sarong, which can be rented on-site. The entrance is a narrow crevice, leading to a surprisingly vast cavern, a truly mystical experience.
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Tembeling Beach & Forest
Discover a hidden gem featuring natural pools, a secluded beach, and a sacred forest. The path down is steep and requires a sturdy scooter or a local ojek (motorcycle taxi) for the descent. The natural fresh water pools offer a refreshing dip after the journey, a true local secret.
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Local Warung Dining
Savor authentic Indonesian cuisine at a local 'warung'. These simple eateries offer delicious and affordable meals like Nasi Goreng or Mie Goreng, typically costing from 2€ per dish. Look for places frequented by locals for the most authentic experience and freshest ingredients, supporting the local economy.

⏱️ How long to visit Nusa Penida?

3 to 4 days

For an independent traveler, 3 to 4 days are ideal to explore Nusa Penida's main attractions without rushing. With 2 days, focus on the west side (Kelingking, Broken Beach) and one activity like snorkeling. If you have 5 days or more, you can include diving, trekking to lesser-known spots, or spend more time relaxing on the beaches. Plan your itinerary to group sites by location to minimize travel time.

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